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Monday, July 20, 2009

A step inside the Ritz

This is the inside of the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia's rotunda building. It holds a lobby, a bar and a small restaurant. When we first walked in, I wasn't sure if I liked the clash between the modern decor and the classic architecture, but it soon grew on me. Notice the circular structure in the center of the room. This used to be a circular bank teller window. Now it's a fancy wine cabinet, and if you look into the center of its oculus, you will see the top of the ballroom chandelier of the floor below, which is aligned with this oculus and in the one in the ceiling above.

The mixture of natural and man-made lighting illuminated the granite in very interesting ways depending on what time of day or night it was.

28 comments:

It is quite the contrast between modern and classic. I'm not sure how I feel about it. I think the colors that you captured in photo #1 is neat. It all looks rather cold though as far as atmosphere goes. Maybe that's why the introduction of some wild color.

I blog here.There's a lot of glitz in the Ritz! Beautiful series. Interesting and colorful.P.S. Santa Barbara would be a good place. You can write to the Visitors and Convention Bureau to get more information of the places to visit. It is very helpful.

Despite the fact that I like modern architecture, I like to see classic, older buildings reused as well. I've actually been inside the Ritz Carlton in Philly, and I don't remember it looking like this. I must have been in the budget end of the hotel (LOL).

I too, have a hard time dealing with the mixing of architectural styles. Sometimes the modern day thinkers just don't know to leave things alone. Maybe I'm just old-fashioned that way. Look at what's happening to me...I just described myself as old! I also love staying in Ritzy places like that. Kind of makes you feel all 'hoighty toighty' if only for awhile. Awesome as usual James. Love the wall mural too!

Hello Monsieur James! :)wow fabulous pictures! I can see that "your world"is très chic my friend! ;)This place is outstanding and I loved these neons lights!Very elegant and charming!By the way, many thanks for your kind comments and visits in our blogs!Greetings from Luxembourg!God bless youLéia